Low weight and low power users

Paragliding and ballooning – tips on getting the best from your transponder or radio

Our transponders can run for hours powered by standard dry cell batteries. Rechargeable batteries can be used if kept in good condition.

Because a single connection harness passes power and data between the control head and the transponder hardware unit, these units can be stored in a Paraglider harness seat pocket, or even in your flying suit. Approved Trig Dealers can advise on a suitable antenna installation in these light weight applications. Using a TT21 with a whip antenna has been shown to be highly practical, providing efficient and effective Mode S visibility.

In Ballooning the transponder control head is typically fixed into some type of housing and a small pitot tube fitted to gauge altitude. There are Approved Trig Dealers who sell a complete unit with transponder, battery and control head fitted into a small case. This portable equipment can be stowed in the basket and allows the avionics to be moved quickly to an alternative balloon.

Balloon pilots may need to fly with the transponder fitted in a variety of balloons, each with their own civil registration. The transponder can be easily programmed to transmit the correct ‘tail fin’ (or in this case) the balloon registration code. As Trig transponders are simple to update, you can change the Mode S address and registration details in seconds ensuring the correct flight data is transmitted by the transponder.